Donegal soccer legend Packie Bonner has sent out an SOS to help save Finn Harps.
The Ballybofey club has once again found itself facing an uphill financial battle if it is to survive.
But the former Glasgow Celtic and Ireland Legend Packie Bonner says it is vitally important for football in Donegal that Finn Harps remain in the League of Ireland.
Packie says ‘The continuation of Finn Harps in the League of Ireland is vital for the development of football in Donegal. Over the past number of years Finn Harps have been a key element in developing a clear pathway to allow the best young footballers in the county to develop their talent.
“At present for example Finn Harps Under 19 are top of the Northern Section in the National League, this team is comprised of players who have come through this development system. I look forward to seeing some of these players progress like others in the past, into the senior team.”
Packie is also delighted that Finn Harps in conjunction with the FAI Development Officers have developed strong community relationships with Primary Schools in Donegal
‘It is good to hear Harps have over eighty schools registered with the club and that the Harps Players actively visit the schools, rolling out competitions and coaching sessions, as well as the initiatives such as bringing kids to the FAI Cup Final,” he added.
Finn Harps have come out recently and outlined that they need €48,000 to achieve licensing for the coming year.
According to Packie it is important for clubs such as Harps that they keep their fans and the sporting public aware of their financial situation on an ongoing basic.
‘It is important that the activities of club affairs are open and transparent and I welcome the club’s efforts in this area’.
At present Finn Harps are asking people to donate a €100 in a once off contribution, in return for inclusion in the Harps Lotto 2012.
This as well as other fundraising initiates, Packie Bonner is asking the Donegal Public to support Harps financially ‘I am asking the sporting public and the business community of Donegal to get behind Finn Harps financially in the coming four weeks.”
